Jun 23, 20212 min read

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Horse Rescue

Updated: Sep 9, 2021

Institute for Equine Nurturing Development and Safety

Our first place we volunteered for high school credit was the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. ranch. They had many animals such as horses, donkeys, pigs, goats, and sheep. We had to muck the stalls of the horses, Dixie, Susie, and others. I like volunteering here because it was a good way to get our hours and better the community. The animals were all rescued so it's good to help out a good organization. I recommend volunteering here if you like animals and don't mind getting dirty. Even if you don't you could always give it a try because I didn't think I would like cleaning up after horses all afternoon and it wasn't even bad and time flew by. It was definitely a workout. The only negative to this was the temperature outside, even that wasn't all that bad. There's more things to do than just cleaning up after the animals, you could groom them, bathe, them, feed them, and clean up the path. If you plan on volunteering here I recommend rubber boots, and gloves because it gets a little dirty. Make sure you bring plenty water and bug spray.

~Reese

June 22, 2021

When I learned that I had an opportunity to volunteer by cleaning horse stalls, I have to admit that I wasn't all that excited. I would have never guessed that it would be such a rewarding experience. On June 22, 2021, we went to F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Horse Rescue and Sanctuary to volunteer. At the rescue, they take in horses that need assistance within the state of Florida. They are always in need of volunteers to help with different tasks, including mucking the horse stalls. Although cleaning the horse stalls may not sound like the most fun job to do, you are helping the staff so they can spend more time taking care of the animals. In addition to horses, they have other animals such as pigs, goats, and sheep. I got the chance to hang out with other animals, including a donkey named Pepe. Even though it was hard work, I really enjoyed spending time with the horses in their stalls. The staff was very friendly and they taught us exactly what we needed to do. The horse rescue needs as much help as they can get. If you plan to volunteer, I highly recommend F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Horse Rescue. Just be sure to wear old clothes and boots, and bring lots of water! I definitely plan on going back to help and I encourage you to do the same.

~Sam

June 22, 2021